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		Harvey Small
When I opened the gas tank locker on my Hunter 26 this afternoon, it looked like there was some additional extra thick gas hose.  Actually, it wasn't more hose, it was a water moccasin!  Yep, those triangular pit viper heads are unmistakeable.  So what to do next?  We wanted to go see the fireworks on the river, but I was not about to squeeze the gas bulb or open the vent on the gas tank with that guy around.  The solution involved a boat hook, a whisker pole and a water hose.  I kept a safe distance, and the snake got annoyed enough to slither back into the water.  Hopefully it'll continue on it's mission of controlling the rodent population & leave the boats alone!Oh yes, the fireworks on the Alton Illinois riverfront were great!  Happy Fourth of July & remember to look at your gas locker before sticking your fingers inside!Harvey Smalls/v Waiting for the Sun